Unique, innovative partnership to create organizational synergies, benefit students
Today, Iowa Wesleyan University (IW) and Southeastern Community College (SCC) have announced the approval of the formation of the Southeast Iowa Higher Education Alliance (SIHEA). While both institutions will continue to operate separately, this unique partnership between a four-year private liberal arts university and a community college will serve as an innovative model for the future of higher education.
“Our two institutions are well-aligned, both strategically and operationally, to make SIHEA a successful partnership,” said Dr. Michael Ash, president of Southeastern Community College and newly appointed Chancellor of SIHEA. “The opportunities that SIHEA students will have access to are tremendous, from seamless and affordable degree pathways to increased professional resources and support.”
“This innovative model is the result of two years of comprehensive work,” said Chris Plunkett, president of Iowa Wesleyan University. “Colleges and universities nationwide are struggling with decreased enrollment, skyrocketing costs and potential closures. Collectively, Iowa Wesleyan University and Southeastern Community College are coming together from a position of strength, and this partnership will secure and protect our bright future and the future of our students.”
SIHEA will offer smooth, affordable academic pathways between IW and SCC, broadening the educational opportunities for students and increasing the talent pipeline for our regional workforce. Through this model, a student could take college-level courses in high school and go on to complete an associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree all within the SIHEA system.
To learn more about the alliance, view the virtual media conference held on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 below. President Chris Plunkett from Iowa Wesleyan University and Dr. Michael Ash from Southeastern Community College discussed the agreement, shared their perspectives, and answered questions.
Zoom session recording:https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/tuxftGnNKKIbDf8FuI_3lCtvWn79C3vjeBSUeIfL1ssx9YQPda1VTED4hZPovWn6.bF4tODe_8-93C8u8?startTime=1610479791000
Session password: =Lb*0!L1
Iowa Wesleyan University – As Southeast Iowa's regional comprehensive university, Iowa Wesleyan University is a transformational learning community whose passion is to educate, empower and inspire students to lead meaningful lives and careers.
Southeastern Community College – Dedicated to lifelong learning, Southeastern Community College proudly supports all students who are ready to reach their career and educational goals.